For the glory of God, in honor of Saint John Mary Vianney
I pray that some of what you read or hear may lift your spirits in praise of Jesus Christ.
Please feel free to email with questions or prayer needs.

Catholic Prayers for the New Evangelization

"Catholic Prayers for the New Evangelization"

Check out the revised edition of this exciting and unique prayer book, filled with prayers that are sure to nourish the soul as we undertake the New Evangelization.

Monday, February 26, 2007

Homily First Sunday of Lent 25 February 2007

N.B. This week, for the first time, I delivered a homily without a full text. It went well but there is not a text to publish. I share with you my notes.

When I was confirmed, I chose the name John…Not John the Evangelist or John the Baptist…John Mary Vianney, patron saint of parish priests

Story of Saint John Vianney's ministry.

His struggle with temptations and assults by the Devil.

Tempted by the DevilTossing and turning at nightBed set ablaze

Tempted to run away from his parish, ministry

He persevered, converted his people back to Jesus Christ in a remarkable way.

Today’s Gospel recounts to us how even Jesus Himself experienced temptations.

Devil tempts Jesus to use His power to make stones into bread.Tempts Him to use his power for Himself, because He is hungry.

Devil shows Jesus all the kingdoms of the world.Devil promises Jesus power and glory if He will worship him.Tempts Him to worship someone other than God.

Devil tempts Jesus to throw Himself down from the Temple, and see if the angels catch Him.Tempts him to test God.

Each of us experiences temptation in our own lives.To misuse the gifts and talents we have been given for our own advantageTo worship something or someone other than God.To test God, to give Him an ultimatum, or to say “if you do this for me…then I will love you.”

Temptation faces us always.From what we see on TVFrom peers

We experience the tension between good and evil within us.

In moments of temptation…grasp onto the Lord and His Mother Mary.

Saint John Vianney:"If you invoke the Blessed Virgin when you are tempted,she will come at once to your help,and Satan will leave you."

Season of LentAs Catholics, traditional practices:FastingPrayerAlmsgiving

May we make this Lent holy…that we may celebrate Easter with joy and great thanksgiving.

Spiritual Motherhood

Father Beiting's Appalachian Mission

A splendid outreach in which I had the privilage of sharing for a week in the summer of 2010. Father Beiting was a holy and loving man - a living saint! It was an honor to meet him. May he rest in peace. Click on the window learn more...

Liturgy Bulletin Series

Click for more information...e-mail me if you can use these in your parish bulletin or if you have questions/suggestions...